The Patrons of Husbandry, or the Grange, was founded on December 4, 1867, in Washington, D.C. It was the first successful national farm organization. It was established by Oliver Kelley, Caroline Hall and five others to advance the social, economic, and educational needs of farmers and their families.
The organization experienced a significant surge in membership after the financial crisis of 1873. The Grange became a powerful force in politics, supporting reform movements like the Populist Party and playing a role in achieving initiatives such as the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 and Rural Free Delivery. More
